‘Glee’ actress says she is gay

Filipino singer/actress Charice Pempengco has announced that she is gay.

The star, who shot to international fame with appearances on “Glee” and Oprah Winfrey’s talk show, confirmed she is a lesbian in a TV interview with The Buzz, which aired in her native Philippines over the weekend.

After her announcement, Pempengco said, “Now I feel free. I can go out of the house without fear and certain that I’m not stepping on anybody’s toes.”

Pempengco also apologized to fans upset by the news and held back tears as she added, “To those who can accept me, thank you very much. We are all equal, whether you are gay or straight… I am proud of who I am. I love myself, that is why I am doing this. To my fans who I know are disappointed – I know some of you will turn your back on me too – sorry. You know I am sincere. From the bottom of my heart, sorry.”

Filipino star Lea Salonga took to her Twitter to praise Pempengco for going public with her sexuality, writing, “Dear Charice have you any idea how many young people you inspired today? More power, blessings and love to you!”